LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION honoring Corporal Frank R. Fratellenico posthu-
mously upon the occasion of his designation as recipient of a Liberty
Medal, the highest honor bestowed upon an individual by the New York
State Senate

WHEREAS, It is incumbent upon the people of the State of New York to
recognize and acknowledge those within our midst who have made signif-
icant contributions to the quality of life therein; and
WHEREAS, From time to time this Legislative Body takes note of certain
extraordinary individuals it wishes to recognize for their valued
contributions to the success and progress of society and publicly
acknowledge their endeavors which have enhanced the basic humanity among
us all; and
WHEREAS, This Legislative Body is justly proud to honor Corporal Frank
R. Fratellenico posthumously upon the occasion of his designation as
recipient of a Liberty Medal, the highest honor bestowed upon an indi-
vidual by the New York State Senate; and
WHEREAS, The New York State Senate Liberty Medal was established by a
resolution in 2014 and is awarded to individuals who have merited
special commendation for exceptional, heroic, or humanitarian acts on
behalf of their fellow New Yorkers; and
WHEREAS, Born July 14, 1951, Frank R. Fratellenico, affectionately
known as Rocko, valiantly served his country as a member of the United
States Army during the Vietnam War; he distinguished himself while serv-
ing as a Rifleman with Company B; and
WHEREAS, As a member of Unit 502nd Infantry Regiment, 1st Brigade,
101st Airborne Division, Corporal Frank R. Fratellenico began his tour
in South Vietnam on May 5, 1970; and
WHEREAS, On August 19, 1970, Corporal Frank R. Fratellenico gave the
ultimate sacrifice; his heroic actions prevented death or serious injury
to four of his comrades nearby, and inspired his unit which subsequently
overran the enemy position; and
WHEREAS, Corporal Frank R. Fratellenico's conspicuous gallantry,
extraordinary heroism, and intrepidity at the cost of his life, above
and beyond the call of duty, are in keeping with the highest traditions
of the military service and reflect great credit on him, his unit, and
the United States Army; and
WHEREAS, Individuals such as Corporal Frank R. Fratellenico devoted to
improving the quality of life for others, enabling them to build lives
of dignity and self-worth are deserving of the highest praise and recog-
nition; and
WHEREAS, This Legislative Body is moved with great respect and rever-
ent esteem, and, on behalf of all of the citizens of the Empire State,
to renew its tribute to the men and women of New York State who so cour-
ageously served their State and Nation during the Vietnam War in defense
of freedom and democracy; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
honor Corporal Frank R. Fratellenico posthumously upon the occasion of
his designation as recipient of a Liberty Medal, the highest honor
bestowed upon an individual by the New York State Senate; and be it
further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be tran-
smitted to the family of Corporal Frank R. Fratellenico.